Last Updated:
Harden, who is yet to win a championship despite his decorated career, joined Cavs from LA Clippers earlier in the month and netted 20 points in Cavs’ 109-94 win over the Knicks.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) celebrates in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards in Cleveland, Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
The Cleveland Cavaliers returned to their winning ways on Tuesday, securing a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks as their recent star acquisition, James Harden, contributed 20 points to the win.
The Cavs took the lead just a minute into the game with an Evan Mobley three-pointer and never relinquished it, enjoying a comfortable night. Harden, a former NBA Most Valuable Player who joined from the Los Angeles Clippers this month, has yet to win a championship despite his decorated career. His move to the playoff-bound Cavs was motivated by this desire, and he has only experienced one loss in seven games with the team. Harden also provided four assists against the Knicks.
“We’re working to build something special, and each game is an opportunity to get better,” Harden said. “Tonight was a good step for us.”
This victory marked a return to form for the Cavaliers after their seven-game winning streak was halted on Sunday by the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Harden, 36, has bolstered Cleveland’s offense alongside Donovan Mitchell, who led the scoring with 23 points.
The Cavs’ win was underpinned by a strong defensive performance, limiting the Knicks’ star player Jalen Brunson to 20 points. “Tonight it was a team effort, and it’s been like that since I’ve been here. That’s one of the beauties about this team, any guy can get it going,” Harden added.
Tuesday’s victory improved Cleveland’s recent form to a 13-2 record since January 21, with 20 wins in their last 26 games. They are now level with the Knicks on 37 wins and 22 losses, placing third in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks struggled with their shooting accuracy throughout the game.
In other NBA action, Tyrese Maxey scored 32 points, along with nine rebounds and eight assists, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a 135-114 win over the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers, last year’s NBA Finals contenders, have had a tough season and are currently at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Chicago Bulls 131-99, with rookie Kon Knueppel achieving his 200th three-pointer. At 20 years old, Knueppel is the fastest player in NBA history to reach this milestone, needing just 58 games.
Meanwhile, the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder secured another win, overcoming the Toronto Raptors 116-107.
(With Inputs From Agencies)
February 25, 2026, 11:43 IST
Read More
